Shade lurker. Rapid reproducer. Fast grower. Species diversity killer. Sounds like the begnining of a bad horror movie, doesn't it? Well, unfortunately what is being described is close to home and not nearly as entertaining. What we are describing is the introducation of a non native species to our natural area. These species are often planted in landscaping because of their pretty flowers, but their effects on our environment are anything but pretty. On a hike through the Commons last fall, a botonist from Wisconson noticed a new invader - Bigleaf Periwinkle (Vinca major). This could be the first recorded sighting in Michigan. You may be familiar with its nasty cousin, common myrtle or periwinkle (Vinca minor), and perhaps have it in your landscaping. Both species love shade and spread quickly. The potential devastation that periwinkle could have has been compared to other invaders like garlic mustard. Would you rather see the woods alive with spring wildflowers or a monoculture of periwinkle or garlic mustard? If you’re like us the answer is the wildflowers. That’s why this month we are working to remove the bigleaf periwinkle from the GT Commons Natural Area and hopefully stop the harmful effects it could have. To learn more about this species and others, click here. For more information about the Commons Natural Area and a trail map, click here.

Tags: commons, invasive, periwinkle